Learn about radiographer requirements
A radiographer, also called a radiography technician, takes x-rays and scans, updates patients' charts, maintains equipment in the radiology lab and adheres to all the safety procedures essential to the job. As a technician, radiographers are not qualified to make medical prognosis or offer treatments, but they are an essential part of the health care team that diagnoses and treats illnesses and injuries ranging from a broken arm to cancer. If you want to become a radiography technician, requirements include education, training, and in most cases state certification and licensure.
Education
The most important requirement to being a radiographer is education. Most positions require a two-year associate degree in radiation sciences, although it is possible to earn certification as a radiography technician from a one-year program. Four-year programs in radiation sciences are also available. Training in radiography involves classroom and clinical instruction in medical ethics, pathology, anatomy and physiology, radiation physics, principles of imaging, patient care procedures, radiation protection, medical terminology, positioning of patients, and radiobiology.
License
Most radiographers must also obtain some form of licensure and certification to work in most states. Licensing laws vary by state, so it is important to check with your state for information on its radiographer license laws. Most states require that a radiographer pass a board licensing examination. In addition, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers voluntary certification for radiography technicians, and most employers would prefer to hire a certified radiographer.
People Skills
Radiography technicians must have the appropriate people skills. Communication with both patients and their families is an integral part of the job. The job is also very detail-oriented, requiring precise following of instructions and efficient handling of the equipment. Because they are just a small part of a bigger health care system, team-work is essential.
Tags: radiography technician, certification radiography, health care, radiation sciences
